“Between stimulus and response, there is a space, and in that space is freedom.”
Viktor Frankl
You’ve probably heard about all of the benefits of meditation and mindfulness practices. The most common thing someone says when asked about meditation or mindfulness is something like, “I can’t do that, my mind is much to busy.” My reply is usually something like, “Me too!”
The second most common thing I hear is something like, “I can’t possibly stop thinking. That sounds impossible.” My reply is usually something like, “You’re right, that is impossible.”
So what the heck is mindfulness and meditation about then?
I’m glad you asked. Mindfulness and meditation are about taking a step back and looking directly at our experience and seeing it for exactly what it is. If the mind is busy, then we observe that the mind is busy. If we are feeling anger or frustration, then observe the anger or frustration. When we take a step back and observe what is happening instead of being swept up in it, we are experiencing true freedom. Freedom from being controlled by our thoughts and emotions. Because we can take a step back and not get swept up, we have the freedom to choose.
This is the beginning.
My formal meditation practice began in 2007. I have practiced w/Zen teachers including Bernie Glassman and Joan Halifax. I currently practice and train at Sweetwater Zen Center in San Diego. I have also received training in teaching MBSR (Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction).
If you want to know more, drop me a message.
